Children foil simulated abductions in RAD graduation

A RadKIDS student practices eluding an abductor during the graduation ceremony Oct. 16 in Sterling. Submitted photo
Twenty-three children from Sterling, Holden, Princeton and surrounding towns completed a 12-hour “RadKIDS” program Oct. 16 at Sterling Gym. The six-week program teaches personal safety and physical resistance against abduction.

More than half of class members had taken it before; RadKIDS has a “free return and practice policy” providing that anyone who takes it may take it again, from any teacher, for free, up to age 13.

During the Oct. 16 graduation, children went through three scenarios each in which a “stranger” tried to trick them and lure them away. They used their radKIDS plans to escape and run to safety. Both the instructor and kids wore protective equipment so the kids could practice their techniques at full strength.

Parents were encouraged to watch and participate in classes, and received a family manual with an overview of topics taught in class.

For more information about RadKIDS, visit radkids.org. For more information about RAD and martial arts programs at Sterling Gym, contact Sue and Mike Sonia at 978-422-7655, suesonia@comcast.net, or 15 Industrial Drive, Sterling.